Failure’s not an option for project to erect 120-foot Cross on 55

Right slap dab in the middle of Panola County in a location off the beaten path is a symbol that reminds those in the proximity to stop, be mindful and present in the moment.
It’s a large bell hanging in a beautiful bell tower at Magnolia Grove Monastery in the Red Hill/McIvor community. Its low ring is heard for miles away. I could only imagine the worth or cost of such beautiful symbol and it’s encasement, but I would bet it was a bunch. But somebody thought it was worth the money and energy it took to make it become a reality.
Not far away near the intersection of Highways 6-278 and I-55 others want to plant a symbol of faith for all who pass to see. That symbol is a 120×64’ cross very similar to the one next to I-55 in Winona.
Carol Anne Lightsey is the first to say it’s not her project but the community’s project. But she has taken the lead in helping to organize raising the $165,000 or so needed to erect the giant Christian symbol.
Those who don’t know Ms. Lightsey need to take my word for it that she is not one to be satisfied with mediocrity and with her, failure is not an option.
As a cheerleader, she never lost confidence in school’s team, as a parent she has never quit raising her children and grandchildren. And she never lost faith when her late husband, the beloved Coach Robert Lightsey, was stricken with cancer and went through months and months of serious treatment.
And now she is focused on THE CROSS project for her hometown.
When asked what she would do if enough funds were not raised, she replied in a Facebook post, “”Honestly, that just hasn’t crossed my mind! But I can tell you if God’s hands are in it will happen! “
“It hasn’t crossed my mind,” she continued, “because I know God is the head of our committee…a committee which includes each and every one of us. I have seen how everything is falling into place. There is no doubt that God’s hands are in it. . . I know that all of us together can do this together. . . “
Well, a few dozen monastics, with outside help I understand, can come up with sources to acquire an impressive bell complete with a beautiful tower, it seems that over 30,000 so-called Christians could come up with enough money to complete THE CROSS project with plenty to spare.
Donations can be made at any First Security Bank Branch or mailed to THE CROSS, 107 Quail Run Dr., Batesville, MS 38606